Manual mode of operation for a washing machine appliance

ABSTRACT

A method of operating a washing machine appliance includes a manual mode of operation where a user interface device, such as a control panel or remote device, is used to input a subcycle combination comprising one or more subcycles, the one or more subcycles comprising at least one of a fill subcycle, a prewash subcycle, a soak subcycle, a wash subcycle, a drain subcycle, a rinse subcycle, or a spin subcycle. The method includes obtain subcycle parameters associated with each of the one or more subcycles in the subcycle combination and initiating an operating cycle of the washing machine appliance in accordance with the subcycle combination and the subcycle parameters upon receiving a start command.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to laundry appliances, andmore particularly to methods of manually operating the same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Washing machine appliances generally include a wash tub for containingwater or wash fluid, e.g., water and detergent, bleach, and/or otherwash additives. A wash basket is rotatably mounted within the wash tuband defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing, and anagitation element is rotatably mounted within the wash basket. Washingmachine appliances are typically equipped to operate in one or moremodes or cycles, such as wash, rinse, and spin cycles. For example,during a wash or rinse cycle, the wash fluid is directed into the washtub in order to wash and/or rinse articles within the wash chamber. Inaddition, the wash basket and/or the agitation element can rotate atvarious speeds to agitate or impart motion to articles within the washchamber, to wring wash fluid from the articles, etc.

Notably, the operation of a washing machine appliance is typicallyregulated by a controller based on user inputs, automated algorithms,and other inputs. Certain users prefer to have more control over theparameters of a particular operating cycle, while others may desire lessinteraction, preferring to throw in a load, press start, and allowautomated algorithms to determine the appropriate parameters for a washcycle. However, conventional washing machine control panels providelittle versatility to a user in selecting and controlling specificwashing parameters, functions, and/or cycles.

Accordingly, a laundry appliance including features for improving userinteraction and control would be useful. More specifically, a system andmethod for permitting user manipulation of a large number of operatingparameters to facilitate improved user interaction and control of a washcycle would be particularly beneficial.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in thefollowing description, or may be apparent from the description, or maybe learned through practice of the invention.

In one exemplary embodiment, a washing machine appliance is providedincluding a wash tub positioned within a cabinet, a wash basketrotatably mounted within the wash tub and defining a wash chamber forreceiving a load of articles for washing, and a user interface devicefor receiving user input related to operation of the washing machineappliance. A controller is operably coupled to the user interface deviceand is configured to receive a subcycle combination from the userinterface device, the subcycle combination comprising one or moresubcycles, the one or more subcycles comprising at least one of a fillsubcycle, a prewash subcycle, a soak subcycle, a wash subcycle, a drainsubcycle, a rinse subcycle, or a spin subcycle, obtain subcycleparameters associated with each of the one or more subcycles in thesubcycle combination, receive a start command, and initiate an operatingcycle of the washing machine appliance in accordance with the subcyclecombination and the subcycle parameters.

In another exemplary embodiment, a method of operating a washing machineappliance is provided. The washing machine appliance includes a userinterface device for receiving user input related to operation of thewashing machine appliance. The method includes receiving a subcyclecombination from the user interface device, the subcycle combinationcomprising one or more subcycles, the one or more subcycles comprisingat least one of a fill subcycle, a prewash subcycle, a soak subcycle, awash subcycle, a drain subcycle, a rinse subcycle, or a spin subcycle,obtain subcycle parameters associated with each of the one or moresubcycles in the subcycle combination, receive a start command, andinitiate an operating cycle of the washing machine appliance inaccordance with the subcycle combination and the subcycle parameters.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood with reference to the followingdescription and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which areincorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrateembodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serveto explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including thebest mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is setforth in the specification, which makes reference to the appendedfigures.

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a washing machine applianceaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter witha door of the exemplary washing machine appliance shown in a closedposition.

FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of the exemplary washing machineappliance of FIG. 1 with the door of the exemplary washing machineappliance shown in an open position.

FIG. 3 provides a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary washingmachine appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 illustrates a method for operating a washing machine appliance inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 provides a flow diagram of an exemplary process for operating awashing machine appliance using a manual mode on a control panelaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 6 provides a flow diagram of an exemplary process for operating awashing machine appliance using a manual mode on a remote deviceaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification anddrawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features orelements of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention,one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Eachexample is provided by way of explanation of the invention, notlimitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be madein the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit ofthe invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as partof one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a stillfurther embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present inventioncovers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of theappended claims and their equivalents.

FIGS. 1 through 3 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a vertical axiswashing machine appliance 100. Specifically, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrateperspective views of washing machine appliance 100 in a closed and anopen position, respectively. FIG. 3 provides a side cross-sectional viewof washing machine appliance 100. Washing machine appliance 100generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and atransverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, suchthat an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined.

While described in the context of a specific embodiment of vertical axiswashing machine appliance 100, it should be appreciated that verticalaxis washing machine appliance 100 is provided by way of example only.It will be understood that aspects of the present subject matter may beused in any other suitable washing machine appliance, such as ahorizontal axis washing machine appliance. Indeed, modifications andvariations may be made to washing machine appliance 100, includingdifferent configurations, different appearances, and/or differentfeatures while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

Washing machine appliance 100 has a cabinet 102 that extends between atop portion 104 and a bottom portion 106 along the vertical direction V,between a first side (left) and a second side (right) along the lateraldirection L, and between a front and a rear along the transversedirection T. As best shown in FIG. 3, a wash tub 108 is positionedwithin cabinet 102, defines a wash chamber 110, and is generallyconfigured for retaining wash fluids during an operating cycle. Washingmachine appliance 100 further includes a primary dispenser 112 (FIG. 2)for dispensing wash fluid into wash tub 108. The term “wash fluid”refers to a liquid used for washing and/or rinsing articles during anoperating cycle and may include any combination of water, detergent,fabric softener, bleach, and other wash additives or treatments.

In addition, washing machine appliance 100 includes a wash basket 114that is positioned within wash tub 108 and generally defines an opening116 for receipt of articles for washing. More specifically, wash basket114 is rotatably mounted within wash tub 108 such that it is rotatableabout an axis of rotation A. According to the illustrated embodiment,the axis of rotation A is substantially parallel to the verticaldirection V. In this regard, washing machine appliance 100 is generallyreferred to as a “vertical axis” or “top load” washing machine appliance100. However, it should be appreciated that aspects of the presentsubject matter may be used within the context of a horizontal axis orfront load washing machine appliance as well. As used herein, terms ofapproximation, such as “approximately,” “substantially,” or “about,”refer to being within a ten percent margin of error.

As illustrated, cabinet 102 of washing machine appliance 100 has a toppanel 118. Top panel 118 defines an opening (FIG. 2) that coincides withopening 116 of wash basket 114 to permit a user access to wash basket114. Washing machine appliance 100 further includes a door 120 which isrotatably mounted to top panel 118 to permit selective access to opening116. In particular, door 120 selectively rotates between the closedposition (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3) and the open position (as shown inFIG. 2). In the closed position, door 120 inhibits access to wash basket114. Conversely, in the open position, a user can access wash basket114. A window 122 in door 120 permits viewing of wash basket 114 whendoor 120 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation of washingmachine appliance 100. Door 120 also includes a handle 124 that, e.g., auser may pull and/or lift when opening and closing door 120. Further,although door 120 is illustrated as mounted to top panel 118, door 120may alternatively be mounted to cabinet 102 or any other suitablesupport.

As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, wash basket 114 further defines aplurality of perforations 126 to facilitate fluid communication betweenan interior of wash basket 114 and wash tub 108. In this regard, washbasket 114 is spaced apart from wash tub 108 to define a space for washfluid to escape wash chamber 110. During a spin cycle, wash fluid withinarticles of clothing and within wash chamber 110 is urged throughperforations 126 wherein it may collect in a sump 128 defined by washtub 108. Washing machine appliance 100 further includes a pump assembly130 (FIG. 3) that is located beneath wash tub 108 and wash basket 114for gravity assisted flow when draining wash tub 108.

An impeller or agitation element 132 (FIG. 3), such as a vane agitator,impeller, auger, oscillatory basket mechanism, or some combinationthereof is disposed in wash basket 114 to impart an oscillatory motionto articles and liquid in wash basket 114. More specifically, agitationelement 132 extends into wash basket 114 and assists agitation ofarticles disposed within wash basket 114 during operation of washingmachine appliance 100, e.g., to facilitate improved cleaning. Indifferent embodiments, agitation element 132 includes a single actionelement (i.e., oscillatory only), a double action element (oscillatorymovement at one end, single direction rotation at the other end) or atriple action element (oscillatory movement plus single directionrotation at one end, single direction rotation at the other end). Asillustrated in FIG. 3, agitation element 132 and wash basket 114 areoriented to rotate about axis of rotation A (which is substantiallyparallel to vertical direction V).

As best illustrated in FIG. 3, washing machine appliance 100 includes adrive assembly 138 in mechanical communication with wash basket 114 toselectively rotate wash basket 114 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinsecycle of washing machine appliance 100). In addition, drive assembly 138may also be in mechanical communication with agitation element 132. Inthis manner, drive assembly 138 may be configured for selectivelyrotating or oscillating wash basket 114 and/or agitation element 132during various operating cycles of washing machine appliance 100.

More specifically, drive assembly 138 may generally include one or moreof a drive motor 140 and a transmission assembly 142, e.g., such as aclutch assembly, for engaging and disengaging wash basket 114 and/oragitation element 132. According to the illustrated embodiment, drivemotor 140 is a brushless DC electric motor, e.g., a pancake motor.However, according to alternative embodiments, drive motor 140 may beany other suitable type or configuration of motor. For example, drivemotor 140 may be an AC motor, an induction motor, a permanent magnetsynchronous motor, or any other suitable type of motor. In addition,drive assembly 138 may include any other suitable number, types, andconfigurations of support bearings or drive mechanisms.

Referring still to FIGS. 1 through 3, a control panel 150 with at leastone input selector 152 (FIG. 1) extends from top panel 118. Controlpanel 150 and input selector 152 collectively form a user interfaceinput for operator selection of machine cycles and features. A display154 of control panel 150 indicates selected features, operation mode, acountdown timer, and/or other items of interest to appliance usersregarding operation.

Operation of washing machine appliance 100 is controlled by a controlleror processing device 156 that is operatively coupled to control panel150 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features.In response to user manipulation of control panel 150, controller 156operates the various components of washing machine appliance 100 toexecute selected machine cycles and features. According to an exemplaryembodiment, controller 156 may include a memory and microprocessor, suchas a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to executeprogramming instructions or micro-control code associated with methodsdescribed herein. Alternatively, controller 156 may be constructedwithout using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discreteanalog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers,integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) toperform control functionality instead of relying upon software. Controlpanel 150 and other components of washing machine appliance 100 may bein communication with controller 156 via one or more signal lines orshared communication busses.

During operation of washing machine appliance 100, laundry items areloaded into wash basket 114 through opening 116, and washing operationis initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 152. Washbasket 114 is filled with water and detergent and/or other fluidadditives via primary dispenser 112. One or more valves can becontrolled by washing machine appliance 100 to provide for filling washtub 108 and wash basket 114 to the appropriate level for the amount ofarticles being washed and/or rinsed. By way of example for a wash mode,once wash basket 114 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of washbasket 114 can be agitated (e.g., with agitation element 132 asdiscussed previously) for washing of laundry items in wash basket 114.

More specifically, referring again to FIG. 3, a water fill process willbe described according to an exemplary embodiment. As illustrated,washing machine appliance 100 includes a water supply conduit 160 thatprovides fluid communication between a water supply source 162 (such asa municipal water supply) and a discharge nozzle 164 for directing aflow of water into wash chamber 110. In addition, washing machineappliance 100 includes a water fill valve or water control valve 166which is operably coupled to water supply conduit 160 andcommunicatively coupled to controller 156. In this manner, controller156 may regulate the operation of water control valve 166 to regulatethe amount of water within wash tub 108. In addition, washing machineappliance 100 may include one or more pressure sensors 170 for detectingthe amount of water and or clothes within wash tub 108. For example,pressure sensor 170 may be operably coupled to a side of tub 108 fordetecting the weight of wash tub 108, which controller 156 may use todetermine a volume of water in wash chamber 110 and a subwasher loadweight.

After wash tub 108 is filled and the agitation phase of the wash cycleis completed, wash basket 114 can be drained, e.g., by drain pumpassembly 130. Laundry articles can then be rinsed by again adding fluidto wash basket 114 depending on the specifics of the cleaning cycleselected by a user. The impeller or agitation element 132 may againprovide agitation within wash basket 114. One or more spin cycles mayalso be used as part of the cleaning process. In particular, a spincycle may be applied after the wash cycle and/or after the rinse cyclein order to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During aspin cycle, wash basket 114 is rotated at relatively high speeds to helpwring fluid from the laundry articles through perforations 126. Afterarticles disposed in wash basket 114 are cleaned and/or washed, the usercan remove the articles from wash basket 114, e.g., by reaching intowash basket 114 through opening 116.

Referring still to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of an externalcommunication system 180 will be described according to an exemplaryembodiment of the present subject matter. In general, externalcommunication system 180 is configured for permitting interaction, datatransfer, and other communications with washing machine appliance 100.For example, this communication may be used to provide and receiveoperating parameters, user instructions or notifications, performancecharacteristics, user preferences, or any other suitable information forimproved performance of washing machine appliance 100.

External communication system 180 permits controller 156 of washingmachine appliance 100 to communicate with external devices eitherdirectly or through a network 182. For example, a consumer may use aconsumer device, such as a mobile phone 184, to communicate directlywith washing machine appliance 100. For example, mobile phone 184 may bein direct or indirect communication with washing machine appliance 100,e.g., directly through a local area network (LAN), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth,Zigbee, etc. or indirectly through network 182. In general, mobile phone184 may be any suitable device for providing and/or receivingcommunications or commands from a user. In this regard, the consumerdevice may include mobile phone 184, a tablet, a laptop computer, oranother mobile device.

In addition, a remote server 186 may be in communication with washingmachine appliance 100 and/or mobile phone 184 through network 182. Inthis regard, for example, remote server 186 may be a cloud-based server186, and is thus located at a distant location, such as in a separatestate, country, etc. In general, communication between the remote server186 and the client devices may be carried via a network interface usingany type of wireless connection, using a variety of communicationprotocols (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP, SMTP, FTP), encodings or formats (e.g.,HTML, XML), and/or protection schemes (e.g., VPN, secure HTTP, SSL).

In general, network 182 can be any type of communication network. Forexample, network 182 can include one or more of a wireless network, awired network, a personal area network, a local area network, a widearea network, the internet, a cellular network, etc. According to anexemplary embodiment, mobile phone 184 may communicate with a remoteserver 186 over network 182, such as the internet, to provide userinputs, receive user notifications or instructions, etc. In addition,mobile phone 184 and remote server 186 may communicate with washingmachine appliance 100 to communicate similar information.

External communication system 180 is described herein according to anexemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. However, it shouldbe appreciated that the exemplary functions and configurations ofexternal communication system 180 provided herein are used only asexamples to facilitate description of aspects of the present subjectmatter. System configurations may vary, other communication devices maybe used to communicate directly or indirectly with one or more laundryappliances, other communication protocols and steps may be implemented,etc. These variations and modifications are contemplated as within thescope of the present subject matter.

Referring again generally to FIGS. 1 and 2, control panel 150 andassociated methods of operation that may be used to control operation ofa washing machine appliance will be described according to an exemplaryembodiment. Control panel 150 may include a plurality of control inputs,input selectors, buttons, switches, touch panels, capacitive touchbuttons, and other features that permit interaction with the user ofwashing machine appliance 100. Although an exemplary control panel 150and control schematic is described herein, it should be appreciated thatvariations and modifications may be made to control panel 150 whileremaining within the scope of the present subject matter. Notably,control panel 150 and/or mobile device 184 may be referred to hereininterchangeably as a user interface device.

As shown, control panel 150 may include a set of controls that make upan automated user interface (e.g., as identified generally by referencenumeral 190) and a manual user interface (e.g., as identified generallyby reference numeral 192). As explained in more detail below, automateduser interface 190 may be the same or similar to conventional controlpanel interfaces on washing machine appliances. In this regard,automated user interface 190 generally permits user interaction toperform automated operating cycles of washing machine appliance 100. Asexplained above, certain users may wish to have more granular anddetailed control of each operating function, subcycle, and/or operatingcycle of washing machine appliance 100. Accordingly, aspects of thepresent subject matter are directed to a washing machine appliance witha manual user interface, such as manual user interface 192 to permit amanual mode of operation where a user of washing machine appliance 100has more versatility and control in the operation of washing machineappliance 100. Although exemplary automated wash cycles and manual modewash cycles are described herein, it should be appreciated that theseexemplary modes of operation are only intended to facilitate discussionof aspects of the present subject matter. The specific operating modes,subcycles, and functions described herein are not intended to belimiting in any manner.

As used herein, references to automated wash cycles, automatedalgorithms, and the like are generally intended to refer to cyclesinitiated or actions performed by washing machine appliance 100 thatrequire little to no user intervention in their operation. For example,if the user of washing machine appliance 100 wishes to throw a load ofclothes into the wash chamber and hit start, the user may utilizeautomated user interface 190 for this purpose and washing machineappliance 100 may be programmed with a plurality of automated algorithmsfor implementing each cycle with no intervention from the user beyondpushing the start button.

By contrast, manual user interface 192 may include one or more buttons,such as a manual mode command button 194 for implementing a manualoperating mode of washing machine appliance 100. In this regard, as willbe described in more detail below, a user of washing machine appliance100 may press manual mode command button 194 to cause controller 156 ofwashing machine appliance 100 to enter a manual operating mode where theuser may regulate each subcycle and operating function, along with aselected subcycle parameters, to implement an operating cycle inaccordance with the user's needs and desires. According to theillustrated embodiment, manual user interface 192 may have a manual modedisplay 196 and one or more controller parameter selection buttons 198to simplify control and selection of subcycles and subcycle parameters.However, it should be appreciated that according to exemplaryembodiments, the manual mode may be implemented with only manual modecommand button 194 which may be used to cycle through and select thedesired subcycles and subcycle parameters, as will be described in moredetail below.

Although the controls illustrated in automated user interface 190include rotary dials and press buttons and the controls illustrated inmanual user interface 192 include a plurality of press buttons, itshould be appreciated that any suitable number, type, and configurationof control inputs maybe used according to alternative embodiments of thepresent subject matter. Thus, according to alternative embodiments,automated user interface 190 and/or manual user interface 192 mayinclude any suitable number and combination of touchscreen interfaces ora combination of capacitive touch buttons and digital display or staticdisplays that may be selectively illuminated. According still otherembodiments, these interfaces may include any suitable combination oftoggle switches, push buttons, rotary dials, selective knobs, or otherinput mechanisms or selector switches.

While described in the context of a specific embodiment of vertical axiswashing machine appliance 100, using the teachings disclosed herein itwill be understood that vertical axis washing machine appliance 100 isprovided by way of example only. Other washing machine appliances havingdifferent configurations, different appearances, and/or differentfeatures may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well,e.g., horizontal axis washing machine appliances. In addition, aspectsof the present subject matter may be utilized in a combinationwasher/dryer appliance. Indeed, it should be appreciated that aspects ofthe present subject matter may further apply to other laundryappliances, such a dryer appliance.

Now that the construction of washing machine appliance 100 and theconfiguration of controller 156 according to exemplary embodiments havebeen presented, an exemplary method 200 of operating a washing machineappliance will be described. Although the discussion below refers to theexemplary method 200 of operating washing machine appliance 100, oneskilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary method 200 isapplicable to the operation of a variety of other washing machineappliances, such as horizontal axis washing machine appliances, or otherlaundry appliances, such as a dryer appliance. In exemplary embodiments,the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed bycontroller 156 or a separate, dedicated controller.

Referring now to FIG. 4, method 200 includes, at step 210, receiving asubcycle combination from a user interface device associated with awashing machine appliance. For example, this user interface device maybe manual user interface 192, mobile phone 184, or any other suitabledevice permitting user interaction with washing machine appliance 100.As used herein, the term “subcycle combination” is generally intended torefer generally to the sequence of actions, functions, or subcycles thatare performed during a single operating cycle of a washing machineappliance. The “operating cycle” is generally intended to refer to acomplete operating cycle of washing machine appliance 100, e.g.,including all subcycles. Thus, for example, an operating cycle beginsimmediately after a user puts a dirty load of clothes in wash chamber110 and closes door 120. The operating cycle ends after all subcycleshave been completed and the clothes are ready for removal from washchamber 110. Thus, a common operating cycle of washing machine appliance100 may include a prewash subcycle, a wash subcycle, a rinse subcycle,and a spin/drain subcycle.

According to exemplary embodiments, the subcycle combination received atstep 210 includes one or more subcycles, the one or more subcyclesincluding at least one of a fill subcycle, a prewash subcycle, a soaksubcycle, a wash subcycle, a rinse subcycle, a drain subcycle, or a spinsubcycle. Although exemplary subcycles are described herein, it shouldbe appreciated that other subcycles and washing machine functions arepossible for inclusion within the subcycle combination while remainingwithin the scope of the present subject matter. Notably, the inclusionof a subcycle combination enables a user to perform washing machinefunctions that were not possible with conventional washing machineappliances 100 (or not perform these subcycles when a user typically hasno choice).

Notably, in order to provide more user versatility and control over theoperating cycle of washing machine appliance 100, method 200 may includesteps for facilitating user manipulation of specific parametersassociated with each selected subcycle. Thus, according to an exemplaryembodiment, step 220 may include obtaining subcycle parametersassociated with each of the one or more subcycles in the subcyclecombination. In general, the term “subcycle parameters” and the like isgenerally intended to refer to operating parameters specific to acertain subcycle of washing machine appliance. Exemplary subcycleparameters will be described below for subcycles described by thepresent disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that othersubcycles and subcycle parameters are possible and within scope thepresent subject matter. Moreover, it should be appreciated that when asubcycle is selected for inclusion within the subcycle combination, thecontroller 156 may be programmed with a default set of subcycleparameters that a user may adjust using the user interface device (e.g.,manual user interface 192 or mobile device 184). Thus, in the event auser does not adjust the subcycle parameters associated with aparticular subcycle, controller 136 may implement the default orstandard subcycle parameters.

According to exemplary embodiments, a fill subcycle may generallyinclude the process of adding water or wash fluid to wash tub 108. Inthis regard, for example, water control valve 166 may be opened toprovide hot water, cold water, or some combination of hot and cold waterinto wash tub 108. In addition, according to exemplary embodiments, thefill cycle may include adding one or more of detergent or wash additivesinto wash tub 108. According to exemplary embodiments, the subcycleparameters associated with the fill cycle may include a water fillamount or volume, a water fill level, a water temperature (e.g., indegrees Fahrenheit), etc. Thus, for example, if a user selects the fillsubcycle, the user may further manipulate manual mode command button 194or parameter selection buttons 198 to adjust the desired volume andtemperature of water.

According to exemplary embodiments, a prewash subcycle may generallyinclude any step of using water, detergent, and/or other wash additivesto perform a preliminary washing procedure on a load of clothes prior tothe main wash cycle. In this regard, for an extremely soiled load ofclothes, the user may wish to select a prewash cycle for inclusion inthe subcycle combination to improve the removal of excessive dirt andsoil. According to exemplary embodiments, subcycle parameters associatedwith the prewash subcycle may include a water or wash fluid fill amount,a water temperature, an agitation time, and agitation intensity, adetergent amount, or any other suitable parameters for regulating aprewash cycle.

According to exemplary embodiments, a soak subcycle may generallyinclude any step of saturating or submerging a load of clothes in wateror wash fluid to help loosen soils, lighten stains, prepare a load ofclothes for the main wash cycle, etc. Thus, for set in or stubbornstains or soils (e.g., such as grass or bloodstains), a user may wishsoak the load of clothes to loosen the stains prior to the wash cycle.Thus, according to exemplary embodiments, the subcycle parameters thatmay be associated with a presoak subcycle may include a water level asoak time, and agitation time and intensity (if any), and overallsoaking time, or any other suitable soaking parameters.

According to exemplary embodiments, a wash subcycle may generally referto the primary washing process of a load of clothes. This wash cycle mayoccur after any prewash or soak subcycles and may include subcycleparameters such as the water fill amount, the water temperature, theagitation time and intensity, the detergent amount, etc. After a washsubcycle, it may be desirable to rinse the load of clothes. Accordingly,a rinse subcycle may generally refer to the process of draining dirty orsoiled wash fluid in filling the wash tub with fresh water to facilitateremoval of excess detergent, wash fluid, and soil from the load ofclothes. Thus, according to exemplary embodiments, the rinse subcyclemay include a water fill amount, a water temperature, and agitation timeand/or intensity, etc. In addition, the rinse subcycle may includeadditional extra rinse cycles to remove any leftover wash fluid ordetergent.

According to exemplary embodiments, a drain subcycle may generally referto any cycle where wash fluid is removed from wash tub 108. Thus,according to an exemplary embodiment, a drain subcycle may includeoperating drain pump assembly 130 to evacuate wash fluid from wash tub108. The drain subcycle may commonly be combined with a spin subcycle toextract additional water or wash fluid from the load of clothes to bedrained. Subcycle parameters associated with the spin subcycle mayinclude a spin time, a spin speed, etc. Although exemplary subcycles andsubcycle parameters have been described herein, it should be appreciatedthat other subcycles and adjustable parameters are possible and withinthe scope of the present subject matter.

Step 230 may include receiving a start command from the user and step240 may include initiating an operating cycle of the washing machineappliance in accordance with subcycle combination and the subcycleparameters. Thus, according to the illustrated embodiment, the startbutton may be one of input selectors 152 that may be depressed by theuser after all subcycles have been selected and the subcycle parametershave been set. Specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment,washing machine appliance 100 may perform each selected subcycle withinthe subcycle combination in the prescribed order and in accordance withthe selected parameters by the user. Notably, this level of versatilityand manipulation of all operating parameters of washing machineappliance 100 are not presently available or known within a washingmachine market.

Referring now briefly to FIG. 5, an exemplary method 300 of implementinga manual mode of operation will be described according to exemplaryembodiments the present subject matter. For example, method 300 may beimplemented using a manual user interface 192 to operate washing machineappliance 100, e.g., by repeatedly pressing manual mode command button194 and/or parameter selection buttons 198 until the desired subcyclecombination and subcycle parameters are selected. Specifically, method300 may include pressing the manual mode command button 194 severaltimes as indicated repeatedly by steps 302. Each press of manual modecommand button 194 may cycle through the various combinations ofpotential subcycle combinations, such as fill only 304, fill and washonly 306, fill and soak only 308, fill, wash, and drain only 310, fill,wash, drain, and rinse only 312, drain only 314, and drain and spin only316. Notably, once the desired subcycle combination is selected, a usermay select the subcycle parameters associated with each subcycle in thatsubcycle combination, e.g., at step 304 through 316. The user may thenpress the start button at step 320 and the washing machine may implementthe selected subcycle combination along with subcycle parameters atsteps 322.

As explained above, manipulation of the subcycle combinations andassociated subcycle parameters may be input using manual user interface192 e.g., via control panel 150. Notably, according to alternativeembodiments, a remote device, such as mobile phone 184 may be used toselect subcycle combinations and subcycle parameters. Specifically,referring now to FIG. 6, a method 400 of implementing a manual mode fora washing machine appliance will be described. Specifically, method 400may include using a remote device such as mobile phone 184 to make suchselections. In this regard, mobile phone 184 may be programmed with asoftware application that provides interactive prompts and control ofvarious subcycles and associated parameters.

In this regard, step 402 may include selecting the manual mode. Forexample, this may be done directly through the software application onthe mobile phone 184 or may be initiated on the mobile phone by pressingmanual mode command button 194. A user may then click on or select thedesired subcycles to be included in the subcycle combination (e.g., asidentified generally by reference numeral 404). If a particular subcycleis selected for inclusion in the subcycle combination, the softwareapplication may prompt the user to enter the desired subcycle parametersas identified generally by reference numeral 406. In this regard, forexample, if a prewash subcycle is selected, the user may be queried todetermine the desired fill amount, temperature, agitation time andintensity, detergent amount, etc. After the user has populated all thedesired subcycles for inclusion within the subcycle combination and thedesired subcycle parameters for each selected subcycle, the user maypress a start button at 410. The start button may be programmed into thesoftware application on the mobile phone 184 or the user may press thestart button on control panel 150. At this point, step 412 includesimplementing the manual mode of operation by performing operating cyclethat includes all the subcycles in the subcycle combination inaccordance with their selected subcycle parameters.

FIGS. 4 through 6 depict steps performed in a particular order forpurposes of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinary skill in theart, using the disclosures provided herein, will understand that thesteps of any of the methods discussed herein can be adapted, rearranged,expanded, omitted, or modified in various ways without deviating fromthe scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, although aspects ofmethods 200, 300, and 400 are explained using washing machine appliance100 as an example, it should be appreciated that these methods may beapplied to the operation of any suitable laundry appliance, such asanother washing machine appliance.

Aspects of the present subject matter as described herein provideimproved operating software or appliance cycle algorithms that may bemanually regulated by a user through a user interface device, such asthe appliance control panel and/or an enabled software application onthe user's remote device (e.g., a mobile phone). Notably, interactionwith this user interface device may facilitate full user control of thewashing machine appliance to initiate the performance of very specificmachine actions. This can provide several advantages, as nearly allconventional washing machines include electronic controls that providelittle versatility and do not allow users to control specific elements,function, or subcycles of the washing machine operation, thereby causingfrustration in users who have very specific washing needs.

For example, for persons who dye their own fabrics and use the washingmachine for that purpose, a specific series of steps at specific timesis critical for successful results. As another example, a user may havea textile item requiring special care which needs only specific cyclesteps to successfully treat it, and where inclusion of the other cyclesteps offered in standard cycles may damage or provide less optimalresults. Appliance manufacturers cannot typically anticipate everyconsumer need or tailor a specific cycle to meet such exacting consumerneed. However, aspects of the present subject matter provide a manualmode where a user may independently and selectively manipulate manydifferent washing machine parameters and cycles in a manner that meetstheir specific needs.

Specifically, according to an exemplary embodiment, the user interfacedevice may include the control panel of the appliance. This controlpanel may include a manual mode button or manual input button that isindependent and distinct from the conventional automatic cycle controlbuttons. The user may press this manual mode button to slew throughindividual and combined machine functions or subcycles to allow thespecific functions or group of functions desired. The user may use themanual mode button to activate or deactivate each of a variety ofspecific functions or subcycles. The control panel could then prompt theuser to input subcycle parameters associate with each of the selectedfunctions. For example, if the “fill subcycle” is selected, the controlpanel could prompt the user to toggle through various options for thefill level or volume and the water temperature, e.g., through repeatedlypressing the manual mode button. According to still other embodiments,the control panel may include a separate button for each of thesubcycles or machine functions so that a user may select/deselectindividual functions and may specify detailed operating parametersassociated with each function.

According to still other embodiments, the user interface device could bea connected software application on a remote device, such as a user'smobile phone. When manual mode is activated through the softwareapplication, the phone screen could display all possible functions orsubcycles, could include a visual depiction of each washer function,etc. Each of those functions would be selectable and, upon selecting afunction, modifiers of that function would be displayed for selection tocustomize the functions operation beyond the provided defaults. Onceeach of the desired functions are selected and customized, the usercould select Start and the software application would communicate thedesired functions to the washing machine for execution.

The above-described manual mode of operation would be very beneficial inmany instances, only some of which have been described herein. It couldallow for simplification of the user interface by combining manyfunctions and combinations of functions into a single button. The usercould slew through individual and combinations of functions as shown bystatus indicator lights. The manual mode feature could also be veryuseful in the cases where machine diagnostics were needed. For example,the manual mode could provide an easy way for service call takers ormaintenance technicians to ask consumers to try different functions oftheir washing machine appliance to possibly help prevent a costlyservice visit, and it would be very helpful and time saving for servicetechnicians and installers. In addition, the manual mode could provideimproved machine versatility and ultimate control and customization ofthe washing machine for those users who need it for specific laundrytasks.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention,including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the invention, including making and using any devices orsystems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope ofthe invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examplesthat occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intendedto be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elementsthat do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if theyinclude equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differencesfrom the literal languages of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A washing machine appliance comprising: a washtub positioned within a cabinet; a wash basket rotatably mounted withinthe wash tub and defining a wash chamber for receiving a load ofarticles for washing; a user interface device for receiving user inputrelated to operation of the washing machine appliance; and a controlleroperably coupled to the user interface device, the controller beingconfigured to: receive a subcycle combination from the user interfacedevice, the subcycle combination comprising one or more subcycles, theone or more subcycles comprising at least one of a fill subcycle, aprewash subcycle, a soak subcycle, a wash subcycle, a drain subcycle, arinse subcycle, or a spin subcycle; obtain subcycle parametersassociated with each of the one or more subcycles in the subcyclecombination; receive a start command; and initiate an operating cycle ofthe washing machine appliance in accordance with the subcyclecombination and the subcycle parameters.
 2. The washing machineappliance of claim 1, wherein the user interface device comprises: acontrol panel mounted on the cabinet, the control panel comprising amanual control interface to permit manipulation of the subcyclecombination and the subcycle parameters by a user.
 3. The washingmachine appliance of claim 2, wherein the control panel comprises: amanual mode command button, wherein the user provides the subcyclecombination by repeatedly pressing the manual mode command button untilthe one or more subcycles are selected.
 4. The washing machine applianceof claim 3, wherein the manual mode command button comprises: one ormore toggle switches, push buttons, rotary dials, or selective knobs. 5.The washing machine appliance of claim 2, wherein the control panelcomprises: a plurality of buttons, each of the plurality of buttonsbeing associated with a subcycle of the one or more subcycles forselecting the respective subcycle and the subcycle parameters associatedwith the respective subcycle.
 6. The washing machine appliance of claim2, wherein the control panel further comprises: an automated userinterface that the user may use to initiate an automated wash cycle,wherein the automated wash cycle implements automated algorithms toperform the operating cycle without user intervention.
 7. The washingmachine appliance of claim 1, wherein the user interface device is aremote device, and wherein the controller is in operative communicationwith the remote device through an external communication network.
 8. Thewashing machine appliance of claim 7, wherein the remote device executesa software application that provides for user selection of the subcyclecombination and the subcycle parameters.
 9. The washing machineappliance of claim 1, wherein the subcycle parameters for the fillsubcycle comprise at least one of a fill level or a wash fluidtemperature.
 10. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein thesubcycle parameters for the prewash subcycle and the wash subcyclecomprise at least one of a fill level, a wash fluid temperature, anagitation time, an agitation intensity, or a detergent amount.
 11. Thewashing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein the subcycle parametersfor the soak subcycle comprise at least one of a presoak agitate time ora soak time.
 12. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein thesubcycle parameters for the rinse subcycle comprise at least one of afill level, a wash fluid temperature, an agitation time, or an agitationintensity.
 13. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein thesubcycle parameters include default parameters that are adjustable by auser through the user interface device.
 14. A method of operating awashing machine appliance, the washing machine appliance comprising auser interface device for receiving user input related to operation ofthe washing machine appliance, the method comprising: receiving asubcycle combination from the user interface device, the subcyclecombination comprising one or more subcycles, the one or more subcyclescomprising at least one of a fill subcycle, a prewash subcycle, a soaksubcycle, a wash subcycle, a drain subcycle, a rinse subcycle, or a spinsubcycle; obtain subcycle parameters associated with each of the one ormore subcycles in the subcycle combination; receive a start command; andinitiate an operating cycle of the washing machine appliance inaccordance with the subcycle combination and the subcycle parameters.15. The method of claim 14, wherein the user interface device comprises:a control panel mounted on a cabinet, the control panel comprising amanual control interface to permit manipulation of the subcyclecombination and the subcycle parameters by a user.
 16. The method ofclaim 14, wherein a control panel further comprises: an automated userinterface that the user may use to initiate an automated wash cycle,wherein the automated wash cycle implements automated algorithms toperform the operating cycle without user intervention.
 17. The method ofclaim 14, wherein the user interface device is a remote device, andwherein a controller of the washing machine appliance is in operativecommunication with the remote device through an external communicationnetwork.
 18. The method of claim 14, wherein the subcycle parameters forthe fill subcycle comprise at least one of a fill level or a wash fluidtemperature.
 19. The method of claim 14, wherein the subcycle parametersfor the prewash subcycle, the wash subcycle, and the rinse subcyclecomprise at least one of a fill level, a wash fluid temperature, anagitation time, or an agitation intensity.
 20. The method of claim 14,wherein the subcycle parameters include default parameters that areadjustable by a user through the user interface device.